Side by side

KVM vs VMware Workstation Pro

Both stand on hypervisor software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.

KVM

Free plan Open source APILinuxSelf-hosted

KVM offers Linux-hosted virtualization with a broad set of documented VM features and integration options. Check that the host has the required processor extensions before choosing it.

Visit KVM

Workstation Pro offers local virtualization with snapshots, VM security options, and remote vSphere or ESX connections at no charge. Users who need direct vendor support should note that free product users are directed to forums and self-service resources.

Visit VMware Workstation Pro

The facts

	KVM	VMware Workstation Pro
Free plan	Yes	Yes
Open source	Yes	Not published
Runs on	API, Linux, Self-hosted	Linux, Self-hosted, Windows
Lowest paid plan	Free or on request	Free or on request
Plans published	2	1
Maker	Not published	Not published
Website	linux-kvm.org	vmware.com
On hypervisor software	#2 of 26	#16 of 26

KVM: what it does well

Free and open-source software.
Runs unmodified Linux and Windows guest images.
Supports live migration between hosts.
Includes snapshots, nested virtualization and GPU acceleration.
Available through major community and enterprise Linux distributions.

What to know first

Linux host requires Intel VT or AMD-V extensions.
Windows guest drivers are available separately.

VMware Workstation Pro: what it does well

Runs multiple operating systems on one physical machine.
Snapshots provide rollback points for virtual machines.
Supports encryption, virtual TPM, and UEFI Secure Boot.
No subscription or license key is required.

What to know first

Free users do not receive Broadcom Global Support Team support.
Hosts are limited to Windows or Linux.
Guest architecture is x86_64.

Alternatives to KVM Alternatives to VMware Workstation Pro The whole list